Media Prep Lead Technician

Fall Creek®; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Fall Creek® is seeking a Media Prep Lead Technician for its lab in Paarl, South Africa. This role involves preparing media, managing supplies, and ensuring quality standards in a collaborative environment. Candidates should have a degree in chemistry or biological sciences, along with strong organizational and communication skills.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Degree or courses in chemistry or biological sciences required.
• 2+ years of related laboratory experience preferred.
• Must communicate and follow detailed instructions in English.

Responsibilities

• Oversee preparation and delivery of media orders.
• Maintain inventory and ensure quality standards.
• Train team members in equipment and protocols.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Organizational Skills

Communication

Team Collaboration

Education

Degree in Chemistry or Biological Sciences

2+ years related experience

Job description

Fall Creek is creating a world with better blueberries through its friendly, collaborative team spread across the globe. To help us accomplish this, we are seeking a qualified Media Prep Lead Technician. This position will be located in Paarl, South Africa.

Position Summary:

This position is responsible for ensuring that media and related supplies are prepared and delivered to all lab units on time, and as specified. Primary duties include oversight of the Media Prep schedule and day-to-day activities of the Media Prep Team, preparation of media and stocks, administration of all aspects of supply inventory, maintenance of Media Prep facility equipment, and assistance with implementation and development of QC processes. The Media Prep Lead Technician is responsible for performing and ensuring all work is done in a safe and efficient manner. This role requires high attention to detail, organization, ability to multitask, and clear communication with end-users, team members, and service providers.

Organizational Fit:

This position reports to the TC Lab Manager/Supervisor and works closely with other lab employees.

Job Setting:

Laboratory setting.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to work with chemical products.
• Perform repetitive work often requiring fine motor skills.
• Must be able to lift 30 pounds (approx. 15kg).
• Climb a step-ladder to put away supplies/media.
• Operate around heat-generating equipment.
• Work under aseptic conditions.
• Work in a high-volume environment.

Essential Duties:

• Organize, schedule, and coordinate preparation of media orders and supplies.
• Train Media Prep team members in equipment use and media protocols.
• Oversee daily activities ensuring quality standards and timely delivery.
• Prepare and dispense various batches of media from chemical components.
• Distribute media to storage areas or clients, maintaining organization.
• Manage inventory and maintain records of laboratory supplies.
• Follow established protocols for laboratory procedures, ensuring quality data collection.
• Record quality control information accurately.
• Strive to keep media production within budget.
• Ensure media prep areas are organized and clean.
• Perform routine maintenance and QC of equipment, coordinating with service providers as needed.
• Assist in developing and implementing QC protocols.
• Conduct QC procedures and maintain records.
• Organize and verify data accuracy in digital files or databases, using Excel.
• Maintain lab safety standards.
• Report to the TC Lab Manager/Supervisor promptly.
• Maintain confidentiality on sensitive matters.
• Support a respectful culture at Fall Creek Farm & Nursery.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Training:

• Degree, advanced training, or courses in chemistry or biological sciences, or 2+ years related experience.
• Ability to read, communicate, and follow detailed instructions in English.
• High attention to detail and ability to recognize deviations.
• Highly organized handling materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Collaborative team skills and positive attitude.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work in a clean environment with limited outdoor access.
• Reliable attendance at the primary workplace.
• Ability to meet physical demands.
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with diverse backgrounds and English language skills.
• Professional and ethical business practices.
• Self-motivated and proactive.

Desired Qualifications:

• Laboratory experience.
• Knowledge of lab terminology and equipment.
• Detail-oriented and patient.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work in a team.
• Enthusiasm for learning.

Position requires an executed confidentiality and non-solicitation agreement.

About Fall Creek:

We are a US-based company focused on blueberry genetics, plants, and grower support worldwide, with nurseries in multiple countries. Our mission is to serve growers and support the blueberry industry, helping ensure success through our genetics, knowledge, and market intelligence.

We are an equal opportunity employer valuing diversity. We offer a competitive salary and benefits. The role is primarily office-based but may require support in nursery settings and weekend rotations.

Application:

Please submit:

• Personal CV/resume with references.
• ID copy.
• Qualification & education records.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.